Artist Alan Dobson could not wish for a more peaceful yet inspirational setting for his paintings than his home, Netherton Hall.

Artist Alan Dobson could not wish for a more peaceful yet inspirational setting for his paintings than his home, Netherton Hall.

Dating back to the 18th Century, the traditional Northumberland hall is steeped in history and enjoys a wonderful setting on the edge of the village of Nedderton, 11 miles north of Newcastle.

Built by Lord Carlisle in the 1700s, the house has had a number of additions through the ages. The hall was split into four separate dwellings in the 1960s and Alan has lived in the Side Wing for the past three years.

"The house has lots of character and an atmosphere of calmness," he said. "Despite its size, it has the warmth of a cottage. I was attracted to the property because of its great location, versatile rooms and good facilities for an art studio."

On taking a closer look at the Side Wing in Nedderton Village, you might be forgiven for questioning just how old the building is.

While Pevsner's Historic Buildings of England confirms the Side Wing to date from the 18th Century, the remainder of the hall being added in the 19th Century, Alan has applied his skills to giving much of the house a strong mediaeval feel in the carefully planned decor.

Alan, who specialises in sketches of Newcastle United footballers, said: "We gutted the place and a lot of planning went into the decor of each room. The theme was to generate the style of the house as it was in the 1700s. This is reflected in the Gothic-style tapestries, iron accessories and weaponry upon the walls."

A hall with polished wood flooring leads to the inviting sitting room with open fire in an inglenook surround. The drawing room is also an area of great character and includes an inglenook fireplace, polished floorboards and beamed ceiling. There is also a shower room.

The kitchen, with its blend of traditional and contemporary, is Alan's favourite room. It is luxuriously finished with granite and beech worktops and cooking range and has ample room for a dining area.

"The kitchen has a big impact and works really well. The TV lounge is also a very cosy room," he said.

The first floor has three bedrooms, stylish bathroom with free standing slipper bath and an office/music room. Two bedrooms feature original fireplaces. On the second floor there are two further bedrooms, one with en-suite shower room.

Simon Beeby of Strutt Parker, which is handling the sale, said: "This talented approach to the finish of the house is a striking feature. However, the house is about much more than the imaginative decor.

"The refurbishment has been thoroughly executed with very appropriate and sympathetic touches, such as the extensive use of reclaimed timbers and the remodelling of the doors and flooring. In addition, the standard of fitted equipment is high, making this a particularly comfortable and stylish property."

The partly walled garden at the front provides excellent privacy and has been designed to provide an attractive environment for both relaxing and entertaining. The courtyard to the rear adds ample parking in addition to the garage and there is a further storeroom.

Alan said: "The grounds are very manageable, south facing and beautiful to sit in during the summer months. The house is extremely versatile and could suit a couple who like plenty of space or a family."

The Side Wing of Netherton Hall is for sale from Strutt & Parker, Morpeth, for offers in excess of &#xA3;425,000, tel (01670) 516 123.